The Federal Government has announced plans to replace the traditional khaki uniform worn by members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with locally produced Adire fabric as part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the scheme and supporting local industries.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this on Thursday during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief.
Olawande said the proposed change is intended to promote local production and ensure that government spending contributes directly to Nigeria’s economy.
He noted that Adire fabric is already produced in several states, including Ogun and Kwara, making it a viable alternative to the current khaki uniform.
According to the minister, the initiative is expected to boost the nation’s textile industry, encourage indigenous craftsmanship and create more opportunities for local manufacturers.
He also announced plans to introduce a new deployment framework for NYSC members, under which corps members will be posted according to their academic qualifications and professional backgrounds.
Under the proposed arrangement, graduates with education-related qualifications, for example, would be deployed to schools and other relevant institutions instead of being assigned through the existing general posting system.
Olawande said the new deployment model is designed to ensure that corps members serve in sectors where their skills and training can make the greatest impact while enhancing the overall effectiveness of the NYSC scheme.
